How we treat Leaky Gut Syndrome

Guelph Naturopathic Medical Clinic has several naturopathic doctors interested in Leaky Gut Syndrome.  We work with patients living both in and outside of Guelph.

Leaky gut syndrome has many causes. Therefore, there’s no “one treatment fits all” approach. Every person is unique and requires their own individual treatment. This is our general approach on how we treat Leaky Gut Syndrome at the Guelph Naturopathic Medical Clinic:

• Consume a whole food diet – Ultra-processed foods contain numerous chemicals (refined sugars, salt, emulsifiers, transglutaminase, artificial sweeteners) that appear to disrupt the intestinal barrier, leading to leaky gut syndrome. A whole foods diet consisting primarily of plants is void of many food additives that may negatively affect the gut microbiome. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains is rich in fibre and other phytonutrients that positively impact inflammation. Fibre acts as a prebiotic to help feed “good” bacteria that, in turn, reduce inflammation and release short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) that feed the intestinal cells. Polyphenols are non-essential nutrients that exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and prebiotic effects. They enhance tight junction integrity, increase mucus secretion, and decrease intestinal barrier permeability, thereby improving intestinal integrity. Polyphenols can be obtained in the diet (fruit, vegetables, spices, etc) and as supplements. We will provide specific dietary recommendations to help heal your leaky gut.
• Avoid GUT-harming drugs – Numerous medications increase the risk of developing leaky gut syndrome, including anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, hormones, and acid-blocking drugs.  We can review your medications and advise you on what medications could be contributing to your leaky gut syndrome.
• Avoid “bad fats” and eat “good fats” – A high-fat diet, particularly one high in “bad fats” like saturated fats from animal sources, tropical oils (coconut and palm oil), and omega-6-rich vegetable oils, appears to increase inflammation and epithelial permeability. “Good Fats” includes monounsaturated fats rich in oleic acid (olive oil) and polyunsaturated fatty acids rich in omega-3s (fish oil, chia, flax), which exert anti-inflammatory actions and reduce epithelial dysfunction.
• Remove food sensitivities  – Numerous studies demonstrate increased intestinal permeability associated with gluten in celiac and non-celiac gluten intolerance but other foods can also contribute. Food sensitivities are very individualized, and an elimination diet or an IgG Food Sensitivity Test may help identify the foods that may cause inflammation and increase leaky gut.
• Resolve dysbiosis – Dysbiosis results from reduced microbial richness and diversity and the overgrowth of specific “bad bugs”. We use various antimicrobials to eradicate undesirable bacteria, parasites, yeast and fungi contributing to leaky gut syndrome. Probiotics are “good bacteria” that help digestion, reduce inflammation and improve intestinal integrity. Supplementing with probiotics has been shown to improve leaky gut as well as eating fermented foods.
• Supplement nutrients – Several micronutrients have demonstrated efficacy in reducing the intestinal damage caused by disease agents, and modifiers can improve stool consistency, thus promoting regularity and reducing diarrhea.  We can help assess your case and see if you have any possible deficiencies and if supplementation would benefit you.

Who can help relieve your leaky gut in Guelph?

Dr. Matt Gowan is a naturopathic doctor with over 15 years of clinical experience.  He has a special interest in digestive conditions, including IBS, colitis, diarrhea, constipation, infantile colic, heartburn, and leaky gut syndrome.  In addition, he is a professor, author, and researcher.

Click here to read his full bio.

Disclaimer: This content is subject to change. The information is intended to inform and educate; it does not replace the medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. © 2018 Guelph Naturopathic Medical Clinic. All rights reserved.